 One thing Smith is doing is keeping the Minnesota talent in Minnesota. Royce White, winner of the state's Mr. Basketball award, is a 6-7 forward with the ability to step in and make an immediate impact. Also from Minnesota is Rodney Williams, a 6-7 small forward who will attack the basket, as opposed to White who plays more of a back to the basket style of game. The frontcourt also gains more experience with junior college transfer Trevor Mbakwe, with the lone newcomer on the perimeter being Justin Cobbs, who will be run into a pretty big challenge if he expects to see many minutes as a freshman. Even with all of the potential that Iverson has, it very well may be Ralph Sampson III who turns into the next Gopher superstar. With 6 points, 4 rebounds, and over 1 rebound a game as a freshman, look for Sampson III to really have a breakout sophomore campaign, especially since, at 6-11 and 230 pounds, he certainly has the size to dominate the paint and has already proven that he can. This is a team that could easily go eleven deep, and it would be a very talented eleven at that. With a healthy mix of experience and young talent, and a great coach who can lead them through the tough Big Ten stretches they are destines to run into, it all seemingly adds up to great season. With a strong conference run, another trip to the NCAA Tournament, and quite possibly a win or two once they get there, the future is bright in Minneapolis. To see just how far this talented team will get, order your tickets now and come see the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Williams Arena as they begin their journey to the Big Dance in March.
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